Name: Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Brownies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 6 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For the crust:; 2 cups graham cracker crumbs; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; For the filling:; 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened; 1 cup pumpkin puree; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract; 1 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice; 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/4 tsp salt; 3 large eggs

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Pumpkin snickerdoodle brownies bring together three favorite desserts in one mouthwatering treat. They have the richness of a brownie, the spice of pumpkin pie, and the classic cinnamon-sugar topping of snickerdoodles. These bars are easy to slice and serve, making them perfect for fall parties, bake sales, or cozy nights at home.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

all-purpose flour
pumpkin puree
unsalted butter
granulated sugar
brown sugar
eggs
vanilla extract
baking powder
cream of tartar
ground cinnamon
pumpkin pie spice
salt

For the cinnamon-sugar topping:
granulated sugar
ground cinnamon

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line an 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
In a mixing bowl, cream together the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
Add in the pumpkin puree, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until well combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cream of tartar, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and salt.
Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined. Do not overmix.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
In a small bowl, mix the cinnamon-sugar topping ingredients. Sprinkle evenly over the top of the batter.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Let cool completely before slicing into squares.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 16 brownies.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

Chocolate Swirl: Add a swirl of brownie batter or melted chocolate before baking.
Cream Cheese Layer: Swirl in sweetened cream cheese for a rich, tangy twist.
Nutty Crunch: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans for texture.
Extra Spiced: Boost the cinnamon or pumpkin spice for stronger flavor.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. These also freeze well—wrap each square in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. To reheat, warm individual brownies in the microwave for about 10–15 seconds.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, but make sure it’s pureed smoothly and excess moisture is drained for best texture.

What does the cream of tartar do?

It gives the bars a subtle tang and helps mimic the classic snickerdoodle texture.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, double the ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan. Adjust baking time by adding 5–10 minutes.

Can I skip the cinnamon-sugar topping?

You can, but it’s what gives the snickerdoodle flavor—it’s highly recommended.

Why are my brownies too cakey?

Overmixing or overbaking can lead to a cakier texture. Mix until just combined and monitor baking time closely.

How do I know when they’re done?

Insert a toothpick into the center—it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, use a dairy-free butter substitute to make the recipe dairy-free.

Can I freeze pumpkin snickerdoodle brownies?

Absolutely. Wrap them individually and freeze for up to 2 months.

Do these taste more like brownies or snickerdoodles?

They’re a true hybrid—moist and dense like brownies with the flavor and topping of snickerdoodles.

What type of pan works best?

An 8×8 or 9×9-inch metal or glass baking pan works great. Line with parchment for easy removal.

Conclusion

Pumpkin snickerdoodle brownies are a unique and delicious treat that perfectly captures the flavors of fall in a fun, layered dessert. With their chewy texture, cozy spices, and irresistible cinnamon-sugar topping, they’re sure to become a seasonal favorite in your kitchen. Whether served at a gathering or enjoyed as a weeknight treat, these bars never disappoint.